Role of DHA and ALA omega-3 fatty acids in the brain development

A new study suggests -  Omega-3 fatty acids i.e. DHA is generally associated with a greater capacity for selective and sustained attention in adolescents while ALA is associated with lower impulsivity.

What are Omega-3 fatty acids?

The omega-3 fatty acids are types of fat known as essential fats. There are three types f omega-3 fatty acids:

1. Docosahexenoic acid(DHA)

2. Alpha-linolenic acid(ALA)

3. Eicosapentaenoic acid(EPA)

 What are DHA and ALA?

Docosahexenoic acid(DHA) plays a vital role in the development of eye and nerve tissues. It also decreases the risks of heart disease by decreasing the thickness of blood and reducing swelling. It is also used for increasing memory skills and helps in overall child development.

Sources of DHA:

• Fish
• Salmon
• Chia seed
• Sardine
• Flax seed
• Fish oil
• Tuna

Alpha-linolenic acid(ALA)  is essential for normal human growth and development. It reduces heart disease by maintaining normal pumping. It may also help in reducing blood clots.

Sources of ALA:

• Walnuts
• Spinach
• Tofu
• Brussel sprouts
• Avocado
• Peanut

 There was previous research that proved the health benefits of omega-3 fatty acids. The health benefits of Omega-3 fatty acids are:

1. Heart health

2. Mental health

3. Eye health

4. Infant development

About research:

In adolescence, many developments and changes occur in the brain. Overall human development is directly related to the brain. These changes generally play an important role in controlling attention and behavior. Omega-3 unsaturated fatty acids are considered important for the proper development of the brain. DHA is the most abundant fatty acid in the prefrontal area of the brain. 

The study was conducted to validate how DHA and ALA play an important role in increasing attention. For this purpose, a group of 332 adolescents from different schools in Barcelona underwent computerized tests that measured their reactions in terms of their attention period and whether they can pay sustainable attention, and their impulse behavior. The adolescent participants also answered a series of questions based on their diets. Also, their blood samples were tested to measure their red blood cell levels of DHA and ALA.    

The results show that higher levels of DHA are associated with greater selective and sustained attention whereas ALA was not associated with attention but was associated with low impulsivity. Researcher Julvez said that the study indicates that dietary DHA plays a role in various attention-requiring tasks. But further studies are needed to confirm its cause and effect. 

This study adds to the study which proved the benefits of consuming fatty fish during brain development as it is the main source of DHA.